The New Zealand Architecture Medal

Retired in 2015, the New Zealand Architecture Medal was used to recognise exceptional architecture.

The Architecture Medal was awarded to a project deemed the most outstanding of a given year's New Zealand Architecture Award winners. It was awarded only after rigorous assessment by an expert judging panel that included an international judge. Before 2008, the highest honour in New Zealand architecture was the Supreme Award. In 2009, Supreme Awards were superseded by the medal.

Ironbank, Auckland

Supreme Awards

From 2002 to 2008 the highest honour in New Zealand architecture was the NZIA Supreme Award. It was common for more than one project per year to reach this tier of achievement. In 2009, Supreme Awards were superseded by the Architecture Medal (see above).

Cumulus, Parnell

“With four levels of car parking and two of offices, Cumulus could have been a merely utilitarian building. Yet the architects have had the wit and inventiveness to turn it into something unexpected and enigmatic.”